G-P planning seven-state expansion project

ATLANTA — Georgia-Pacific is developing plans for potential investments, which total nearly $400 million, in its plywood and lumber operations.

The company has approved funding for significant engineering and is evaluating facilities in a number of southern states, including North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia, Alabama, Mississippi, Arkansas and Texas. The effort would increase Georgia-Pacific’s overall capacity by approximately 20 percent. Pending final site selection and required permitting, start-up would be expected in the second half of 2014 through the beginning of 2015.

“The markets for our products are currently improving at a steady pace. These proposed investments would position Georgia‑Pacific to provide our current and potential customers with the products they need to grow with a long-term recovery in housing,” said Mark Luetters , executive vice president, Georgia-Pacific building products. “We have a long-term vision for our building products business, and these investments underscore our commitment to the industry and the communities where we are located.”